Urban Development

Over the past 25 years, the housing sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain has achieved numerous milestones, thanks to the royal visions of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain. Various housing projects have been launched, and infrastructure has been expanded to support different sectors and provide citizens with a dignified life that meets their aspirations.

In 2001, Zayed City was inaugurated, marking the third housing city in Bahrain's housing history, following Isa Town and Hamad Town. The Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Bridge was inaugurated in 2004, and in 2011, the Wadi Sail City was opened.

In 2013, East Hidd City and Khalifa City were inaugurated. In 2014, Salman City was opened, and in 2015, the Ramli district and East Sitra City were inaugurated, and the launch of the King Hamad Award for Agricultural Development. In 2017, the Real Estate Regulatory Authority was established, and in 2018, the "Banayat" system for issuing building permits was launched.

In 2021, the new Bahrain International Airport was inaugurated, along with the electronic platform for urban planning services, "Takhteet." This was followed in 2022 by the completion of the distribution of 40,000 housing units in implementation of the order of His Majesty the King. In 2023, the development project of Muharraq City was launched.

Looking at the significant achievements in housing during the years of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's reign, we can see a remarkable leap in housing development. The number of cities in Bahrain has increased to six housing cities, up from only two prior to 1999. The number of housing services has risen to 97,000 by 2024, compared to a total of 47,000 services until 1999. Additionally, a housing allowance of 100 Bahraini Dinars per month has been approved for each head of household who has waited five years since submitting their housing service application.

The Kingdom also includes seven cities developed by the private sector: Durrat Al Bahrain, Riffa Views, Amwaj Islands, Diyar Muharraq, Reef Island, the Financial Harbor, and Dilmunia Island. Furthermore, this sector encompasses 172 public parks that offer diverse services to meet the aspirations of all community members, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to achieving sustainable urban development that matches global standards.